SPRINGFIELD — Over one million rental tenants in Illinois could find additional protections when renting from a landlord, thanks to strong support from State Senator Cristina Castro.
“During these times of expensive housing and living costs, the amount of fees charged to find housing puts an extra load on our working families,” said Castro (D-Elgin). “This bill is meant to defend tenants from fees that gate keep them from being able to house their families.”
House Bill 3564 would rectify unfair landlord practices regarding junk fees as landlords were previously allowed to charge an unlimited number of fees at their discretion. Junk fees range from application fees over $50 to modifying or renewing a lease to maintenance requests. This measure would ensure tenants are not surprised by hidden fees not disclosed in their lease.
“I look forward to finding more of our residents in the 22nd District to be able to find housing without fear of putting themselves into debt,” said Castro. “Housing is a right, not a privilege.”
HB 3564 passed the Senate on Thursday.
